May 25, 2026
JAKARTA – Pokémon has teamed up with Indonesian singer Happy Asmara and its mascot Pikachu for a new take on “Kopi Dangdut”, blending the classic hit with the country’s most popular music genre.
Released on Tuesday on Happy Asmara’s official YouTube channel, the project marks Pokémon’s first collaboration with dangdut music. The song is also available on major streaming platforms.
Deputy Creative Economy Minister Irene Umar said the collaboration could help bring dangdut to wider international audiences while showcasing Indonesian culture globally.
“Whenever we talk about dangdut, it is very Indonesian. It would be good if Happy Asmara and fellow dangdut musicians could gain an international stage,” Irene said in a statement, adding that the collaboration was also a form of international recognition for Indonesian culture.
Originally written by Fahmi Shahab, “Kopi Dangdut” was rearranged by Tyo Adrian with a blend of classic and modern elements aimed at attracting younger listeners and audiences beyond traditional dangdut fans.
The collaboration also introduced HEPIKA, a combination of “Happy” and Pikachu’s signature “Pika” sound, alongside a social media dance challenge called “Goyang HEPIKA”.
“This collaboration is very special for me,” Happy Asmara said.
“I have performed ‘Kopi Dangdut’ before, but this version offers a fresh appeal by combining nostalgia with a modern touch. I believe the song can be enjoyed by different generations.”
Susumu Fukunaga, corporate officer at The Pokémon Company, said dangdut was chosen because of its strong connection to Indonesian identity.
“Dangdut clearly represents the spirit of music in Indonesia. It is closely tied to Indonesia’s cultural identity and has the potential to create emotional resonance,” Fukunaga said.
He added that the collaboration was part of Pokémon’s effort to connect more closely with Indonesian audiences through popular culture.
Beyond the music video, Happy Asmara is also set to voice a character in the animated series Pokémon Horizon: Season 3 – Asa Mengangkasa, which is scheduled to premiere on MentariTV on May 30 before becoming available on Pokémon Indonesia’s YouTube channel on June 5.
Pokémon will also release Pikachu plush key chains in dangdut-themed costumes through giveaways and future collaboration events.
A special Pokémon event is also planned for Jakarta’s Car Free Day area in Senayan, where visitors can meet Pikachu in a dangdut costume and take part in the “Goyang HEPIKA” experience.